Although many small paintings are labeled as miniatures, they may not actually be traditional or true miniature works. The true miniature complies with specific rules.

1. The image or painted area cannot exceed 25 square inches (5" x 5", 6" x 4" etc.)2. The subject matter must be one-sixth life size or smaller.3. A miniature should retain its detail under magnification.

The components of any good painting include perspective, color,composition, lost and found edges etc, and remain the same for the artist who paints in the little. While there are some exceptions, realism and exceptional detail are the most desired qualities in miniature works of art.